How to Use Passwords on Your Laptop

Windows lets you slap a password on your account and then requires you to type that password before you can use Windows. Though this is optional, and seems kind of silly when you’re the only one around to use the computer, it is highly recommended. Even if you pick a silly, easy password, do it! The future of computers is all about security. In a few years, passwords may no longer be optional, so get used to the password thing now!

Of course, the natural problem with passwords is that people forget them. So, the idea is to do two things: First, choose a password that you can easily remember, and, second, write that password down in an obvious location but in a secure manner.

A good password contains a combination of numbers and letters. For example, if you once lived at 4870 Elsa Road, then “elsa4870” would be a suitable password. Another technique is to use two obnoxiously unrelated words and connect them with a number, such as “stinky7teeth” or “pirate3diaper”.

When you have a good password, write it down in a handy, obvious place. Just write it in a manner that doesn’t say, “My password is.” For example, write the password on a recipe card or in your address book or portfolio. Stick it in a list of otherwise innocent information, a place where you can recognize it but a snoop would easily miss it.

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